(April, 2026) — The iconic wheel standing fire-rescue show truck, known as “Lil John”, was recently donated to the Darrell Gwynn Chapter of The Buoniconti Fund. The one-of-one vehicle will be offered at Dana Mecum’s 39th Original Spring Classic in Indianapolis on May 14, Lot # N298, with proceeds benefiting The Buoniconti Fund’s mission to support spinal cord injury research and related patient initiatives.
Built as a rolling tribute and crowd-pleaser, “Lil John” is dedicated to the 343 firefighters lost on September 11, 2001. Media coverage highlighted the truck’s show-stopping performance and community focus: The custom, wheelie-performing fire truck built by the late Dennis Coyle has entertained thousands at shows and parades. The vehicle is adorned with a memorial-themed paint scheme honoring fallen firefighters.
The 2016 custom-built truck combines classic fire-rescue styling with purpose-built performance engineering, including a 355 Chevy small-block (Speed Pro rear engine), ATI Turbo 460 transmission, SGS 8-inch planetary gearbox, and a 1999 Chevy body. The truck is capable of wheel standing and performing a 360-degree spin on its rear wheels.
Adding to the vehicle’s unique provenance, the truck’s dashboard is signed by Country Music legend Charlie Daniels.
“Darrell Gwynn was friends with my husband for many years and had a very special place in my husband’s heart as they shared a love of racing and helping those in need. My husband poured all of his love and strength over a 4 year period into hand building this one of kind truck to honor the 343 Firefighters who were lost in the 9/11 tragedy, especially since our oldest son is in the Fire Department. He also wanted to entertain children and adults who were suffering with an illness of any kind,” said Linda Coyle, Dennis’s widow. “The truck meant the world to my husband, and he was able to fulfill his dream for several years. Unfortunately, he became ill and he was unable to continue his dream, so this donation fills my heart with goodness because Dennis always wanted to help organizations that supports those in need.”
“This is an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind donation, and we’re grateful for the Coyle family’s generosity,” said Darrell Gwynn, Director of the Darrell Gwynn Chapter of The Buoniconti Fund. “We invite collectors and supporters to join us at Mecum Indianapolis on May 14 and help turn this remarkable vehicle into meaningful impact.”
The truck will cross the block at in Indianapolis on May 14. The lot number for this vehicle is: Lot # N298. www.mecum.com/lots/1171525/1999-chevrolet-1500-custom-fire-truck/ and preview times are Friday May 8th – Thursday May 14th. 8 am – 6 pm. Bidder registration information is included here www.mecum.com/auctions/indy-2026/.